I worked with the incredibly talented 'Rose Amelia Photos' over the last couple of days to get this amazing, hand-lettered logo which I think fits my business absolutely perfectly. Working with Rose was a dream-- she is intuitive, brilliantly creative, and works quick!

A logo is one of the first things many people will see when they encounter your business, to having a logo that represents you professionally and artistically is *so* important. Likewise, working with a graphic designer who 'gets' what you are going for is paramount. I can definitely say that Rose hit this one way out of the park. I can't wait to start using this fabulous new logo about town!

Since relocating to the Kootenays almost 3 years ago, I have been fortunate to meet and work with the most amazing people. There must be something about the beauty of this corner of the province that breeds the most fabulous, fun, and free spirited human beings you could ever hope to meet.

Tyler and Raycene are no exception to this rule. These two were so approachable and friendly-- I knew before my butt even hit my chair at their consultation that I wanted to shoot their wedding.

We met over drinks a few weeks back to discuss their September wedding, and to get to know each other. The conversation flowed to easily, and it felt like I was having a drink with people I'd known all my life (a very good sign!) As we got onto the subject of their included engagement session, they told me the story of how Tyler proposed-- at the crest of one of their favourite local hikes, with panoramic views over all of Castlegar.

After he popped the question (and Raycene got her sobbing under control) they began an excited journey back down the trail. Not 5 minutes into the return journey, Raycene fell and badly hurt her ankle. Unable to carry on any further, Tyler had to call for backup. His family arrived shortly after, and the team of them carried our damsel-in-distress down the trail, and got her into the car for a ride straight to the emergency room.

But that bad experience did not stop our couple from shying away from that gorgeous hiking trail, which remains a favourite of theirs to this day! I thrilled when they suggested it as the location for their engagement shoot--- as the best locations are ones with sentimental value.

I am happy to report that nobody required any visits to any emergency rooms after our foray up and down the trail. Nobody got any broken bones, or torn ligaments:: just some really gorgeous images that I am super excited to share with you right now. Enjoy!

Raycene & Tyler:: Thank you for your smiles, your laughter, that fabulous glass of wine, and for showing me this gorgeous spot. I can't wait for September!

I met Lindsey about 10 years ago during our first few days at The University of Calgary. Her quiet (almost shy) personality soon opened up to reveal a quirky, fun loving, and incredibly reliable friend who was always there to laugh with, offer advice, and encourage me to go to more classes.

I did not remain at UofC, however Lindsey and I stayed in contact over the years as I moved to Vancouver, San Francisco, Vancouver again, and then The Kootenays. She did some relocating of her own-- Canmore, Portland, Vancouver Island.... But we stayed in touch thanks to the power of Facebook & email. So when Lindsey asked me last year if I would be up to photograph their wedding, I said "Hell yes!"

I had never met Nikali (or Nik, as his friends and family call him) prior to showing up at the Oregon Golf Club to photograph his wedding. It's always a bit awkward when you meet someone for the first time, camera in hand, on their wedding day. ("Hello, I am a stranger, but I am going to be within 10 ft of you for the duration of the most important day of your life. Act natural.") but Nik was immediately warm and blasted the awkwardness out of the water. He greeted me with a huge hug, and said, "It's so great to finally meet you!!"

All awkwardness --- gone.

Lindsey & Nik's wedding was relaxed, beautiful, and just a little bit quirky--- just like the two of them. The couple met on an online StarWars gaming site, so the StarWars references sprinkled throughout the event were completely fitting. Tables were named after planets, the bride's bouquet was set in a lightsaber handle, and guests were instructed to "Eat, Drink, and May the Force be With You". Such fun!

Thank you to Lindsey & Nikali for being such wonderful hosts, having such a fabulous party, and just for being the great human beings that you are. It was WONDERFUL to be part of your big day in this way. Enjoy your honeymoon (France!!) Let's get together soon.

Wanderlust Blog

33-years-young, Tamara Boden is a Family Portrait & Wedding Photographer out of 'The Kootenays' region of south-eastern British Columbia. She loves being right, going on adventures, snuggling her dogs & husband, roadtrips, indie/off-beat weddings, chubby babies and making people laugh. When not behind the camera or at her computer, you will find Tamara planning her next big trip, seeking out the perfect cup of coffee, and counting all of her infinite blessings. Thanks for stopping by!